He nodded slightly, absorbing the information. Emily’s mind raced as she considered the implications of his awakening. It was a medical miracle, but it also threatened to expose her impulsive act of affection. She could already hear the reprimands from her supervisor, the scandalous whispers among her colleagues. But more than that, she feared losing the connection she had felt, however one-sided it had been, with this man during her lonely nights.

Alexander noticed her sudden tension, the way her hands trembled slightly as she checked his vitals again. With great effort, he reached over and covered her hand with his. It was an act of gratitude, of acknowledgment. “Thank you,” he murmured, his voice stronger now but still gravelly.

Emily’s heart skipped a beat. “For what?”